Innovate UK has announced the locations for a nationwide network of 54 electric HGV charging hubs to support the shift to zero-emission freight transport. These hubs are being developed through four key projects—Project Electric Freightway, eFREIGHT2030, ZENFreight, and HyHAUL - under the Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure programme. The announcement follows the opening of the UK's fifth electric HGV charging hub in Immingham, the first UK site launched by Milence.
At the recent Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrations (ZEHID) summit in London, attended by over 400 businesses, Innovate UK outlined its £200 million investment plan. This will fund hundreds of zero-emission HGVs alongside essential charging and fuelling infrastructure. Simon Buckley, knowledge transfer manager for Zero Emission Mobility, said the hubs will tackle a key challenge—reliable charging. The hubs will be spread across the UK, including Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, with most in England.
Moto, a major motorway service provider, plans to install up to 300 electric HGV charging bays at 23 locations by 2030. Construction on the first two superhubs, in Exeter and Tamworth, begins in April following planning approval. RHA senior policy lead Chris Ashley welcomed the long-awaited infrastructure plans, saying they will give operators confidence in moving away from diesel.
Industry leaders see this as progress but warn of remaining challenges. Wincanton CEO James Wroath noted that while infrastructure expansion is positive, cost barriers still hinder electric HGV adoption. Research shows only 25% of logistics firms expect alternative fuel vehicles to be affordable within six years. With over half struggling to meet net-zero targets, experts urge more government support, financial incentives, and faster infrastructure development.
